Obligation

“It is no longer reflected in this parliament, and, therefore, there was an obligation and necessity for the rules of the Dáil to change to reflect that reality.’’

He said the idea of a substantial left force, to represent working-class people and that could become a major party in the country, had not fully emerged. But it was a process that was taking place.

Mr Murphy said he welcomed the provision whereby the Ceann Comhairle could deal with situations where Ministers repeatedly refused to answer questions.

“I see this proposal as a positive step, and I hope the Ceann Comhairle takes advantage of this power and pays close attention to the answers Ministers are giving, or not giving, and then lays his report before the House.’’

Small parties

Mr Murphy said the fact there might be multiple technical groups was significant and an important step forward, reflecting the reality of the rise of Independents and small parties in Irish politics.

Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty said he was sceptical regarding Dáil and political reform.

“While I welcome the proposals in the subcommittee’s report, I do not believe they are groundbreaking measures worthy of taking out our big flags,’’ he said. “Some of them are very simple.’’

He said the provision allowing the Ceann Comhairle to intervene when a Minister was not giving a direct reply to a question should be extended to Opposition leaders’ questions to the Taoiseach.

Independent TD Catherine Connolly said she hoped to use the independent budgetary oversight committee to examine measures passed by the Dáil which were not proofed in the areas of poverty, equality and gender.

She warned against politicians clapping themselves on the back about Dáil reform.

She said Fine Gael and Labour would have introduced measures in the past five years if they were serious about the issue.